Production of Emmental-style Swiss cheese dates back to ancient history. Only one factory in the United States still produces it in the traditional 200lb wheels, and it may well be the perfect Swiss cheese. Aged roughly one year, its texture is firm without seeming dry, while its taste is a concentration of the nutty sweetness one expects from Swiss cheese with none of the bite typically associated with other aged varieties. Wheel Swiss is capable of supporting its own meal course – serve with nuts, grapes, and dried fruit as the center of a truly world-class cheese plate. It also melts well for an aged cheese, complementing smoked ham beautifully or pairing with Gruyere for an unforgettable fondue. The rind is fully edible as well; just save and dry, then grate onto any dish as you would Parmesan for a unique salty, nutty flavor. In the room full of excellent cheeses that is Baumgartner’s, this local gem still manages to shine – try some today and wonder where it’s been all your life.